Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Has the Taoiseach addressed the issue about which the Information Commissioner complained in her December 2005 report, in which she highlighted the point that Departments introduce legislation that amends the Freedom of Information Act without any reference to her position? The Taoiseach will recall that in the case of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, the Information Commissioner only discovered the amendment to the Freedom of Information Act when it was brought to her attention by a member of the public. What procedures have been put in place in the Department of the Taoiseach and other Departments to ensure that there is proper consultation with the Information Commission regarding any legislation which may be planned or intended and which will have the net effect of an amendment to the Freedom of Information Act as it currently or has previously operated? Does the Taoiseach agree with the commissioner that it is obvious and sensible for consultation with her office to take place?

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